The DBE Program encourages the development and use of companies owned and controlled by minorities, women, and socially and economically disadvantaged individuals on federally-aided highway construction projects. These companies can be contractors, suppliers, or manufacturers with capabilities in the transportation industry. Under the program, select contracts are assigned percentage goals, based on the total dollar amount of the contract, for participation by certified DBE firms. The prime contractor must meet the assigned DBE goal or prove that sufficient good faith efforts were made in an attempt to meet the goal.

To participate in the program, each company must first be certified by the ND Uniform Certification Program (UCP) Board, and every year thereafter, must be reviewed for eligibility.